Let me tell you a story about a guy named Phil.

No, not that Phil. No, not that Phil, either. Not that one, either. Definitely not that Phil.

This Phil.

Phil Gordon is a man of many talents: author, TV commentator, teacher, video producer, movie star and, on occasion, poker player.

He is also a man given to extremes: he is extremely intelligent (graduated from Georgia Tech at age 20), extremely rich (made millions in the dot-com years), extremely tall (at 6’9”, even LeBron James looks up to him) and extremely charitable (his Bad Beat on Cancer charity has raised millions of dollars for cancer research).

For players who are looking to improve their game, especially at the final table of a big tournament, I recommend his Final Table Poker DVD. The production values and visual presentation are top-notch, as opposed to most poker videos that look like they were made in someone’s basement. His narration takes you through his thought process as he navigates through his opposition to make the best decision during each hand. He includes guest players like UFC announcer Bruce Buffer and former World Champion Chris Ferguson. He also uses actors to portray characters that may or may not resemble certain famous pros.

Phil Gordon’s books also contain a lot of sound poker advice. His first book, Poker: The Real Deal, features great stories and insights into the lifestyle of the touring poker pro. His Little Green Book and Little Blue Book, modeled after golf instructor Harvey Penick’s Little Red Book, carry excellent tips for players at all levels in all situations.

Most people recognize Phil from his hosting duties on Bravo’s Celebrity Poker Showdown. His astute analysis and conversational tone helped to make that show one of the highest rated programs in the history of the channel.

Recently, Phil landed a role in the film The Grand with Woody Harrelson, Cheryl Hines and Ray Romano. Going against type, Phil gives a stellar performance as a TV poker commentator (what a stretch!) who doesn’t always get along with his co-host.

A certain old saying goes, “Those who can, do; those who can’t, teach.” Phil Gordon is a rare example of a player who “can do” and who “can teach”.